Saudi, Turkish and Pakistani Officials Expected in Tehran Amid Reports of U.S.-Israeli Strike Plans
Senior officials from Saudi Arabia, Turkey and Pakistan are expected to meet Iranian officials in Tehran on Monday, October 26, 2026. The New York Times describes the expected visit as a rare joint one, and it comes as reports say the United States and Israel are drawing up plans for possible new strikes on Iran.
The three visiting countries are members of the Mecca Pact, also called the Mecca Defence Alliance. Saudi Arabia, Turkey and Pakistan signed the Mecca Joint Defense Agreement on August 7, 2026, according to JPost. Reuters reported that the Tehran talks were scheduled for Monday, and Channels Television said they would cover regional security. Al Jazeera reported that the officials planned to address the regional repercussions of the U.S.-Israeli attack on Iran.
The strike planning is the other thread. The New York Times reported on October 21 that the U.S. and Israeli militaries had developed specific plans for renewed strikes after the American midterm elections, which choose members of Congress. NPR reported that the two countries were preparing plans for a possible attack in early November.
On Monday, Donald Trump ruled out strikes on Iran, according to Al Jazeera.
Turkey has taken a clear position on the question. In remarks reported by Reuters on October 23, Turkey said a renewed attack on Iran would expand the conflict, and that diplomacy was the only way forward.
